Before moving to a new city one does the usual investigative work – housing market, crime rates, schools, cultural activities, health food stores, parks, and of course restaurants. If you’re plant-based vegan it becomes even more imperative to check out the local food scene. At least it was for me. What was the Wilmington plant-based vegan restaurant scene like?

Coming from Charleston, SC, known for its cuisine, I was mentally prepared to be in a city with less options. However, after living in Wilmington for over a year and a half now I can gladly say how pleasantly surprised I’ve been with the vegan options here.

One of the first things I noticed within the first few months of moving and striking up conversations with strangers was that there are A LOT of vegans here. Perhaps more per capita than Charleston. Now, this is just an observation from strangers, but it has been a lot of fun to meet so many others who share a similar affinity for plants, health, and of course animals.

Below is a list of some of my favorite spots. I would definitely like to see more “healthy” and organic options in the future, but this is good a start!

Note: Not included on this list are national chains. My list is comprised of just local spots that I personally recommend and only have a few locations! I mean, you know Chipotle exists, right?!

**Updated July 26, 2024** Feel to email if I missed one of your favorites or something has changed.

SeaLevel Vegan Diner

Currently one of only 2 all vegan restaurants in town, SeaLevel Vegan Diner is a must. My personal go-to is the lentil burger on a brown rice tortilla, add avocado. P.S. They go the extra mile by soaking their organic lentils! And be sure to check out their sweet treats – all made in house, even the ‘nice’ cream!

The Green House

The Green House holds a pretty prestigious title as currently the one and only fine dining vegan restaurant in Wilmington. The ambiance alone will not disappoint. The menu changes fairly often, as they try to use lots of local seasonal fresh ingredients. Be sure to try one of their mocktails! They’re divine!

Well-fed Ed (food truck)

Well-fed Ed is walking the walk, committed to spreading the word about health and proper nutrition education, while offering insanely delicious and nutritious meals. Be sure to check out their Instagram to find out their weekly whereabouts. Also, listen to my podcast episode with owner, Lucas McLawhorn, to learn all about the inspiration behind Well-fed Ed and experience with cancer.

The Half

One thing I’ve missed for years and years was a good sandwich. That all changed when I discovered The Half, which has a little over a dozen delicious sandwich options, many which are already vegan, or can be made into veggie. They even have gluten-free bread! Be sure to try their potato salad – it could be the best I’ve ever eaten.

Banh Sai

Banh Sai started as food truck and has since opened up a brick and mortar, where “asian fusion meets 80’s flair. The menu offers a build your own style setup, with tofu and Brussels sprouts as main topping items.

Kipos

You really feel like you’ve “been somewhere” while at Kipos; the interior design is stunning. And don’t forget to check out their magical garden, or better yet, get a table out there. As a Greek restaurant, Kipos offers quite a few plant sides/dishes, including my personal favorites – traditional gigantes (giant braised beans) or lemon roasted potatoes.

Kale Me Crazy

Perfect for sit down or on the go, Kale Me Crazy has all the healthy staples – juices, smoothies, wraps, and salads – all fresh and mostly organic.

Seaside Bagels

Seaside Bagel has an extensive separate menu just for vegans, including the classic bagel and lox but made with carrots (called The Little Mermaid – so cute)! They’re very passionate about the planet and the community, with their slogan being “changing the world one bagel at a time.”

Seabird

It you couldn’t tell from the title, Seabird is a seafood restaurant. However, they have quite a few delicious vegan plates including their Farro Grain bowl for lunch or try the Vegan Plate for dinner. These dishes do change seasonally so they could be slightly different.

Dram Yard

Dram Yard offers delicious tapas style cuisine “featuring Southern coastal flavors with a global twist”. It also has one of the cutest gazebo and garden areas in town, where you can eat or simply enjoy a cocktail.

Lovey’s Market

Order from the made to order menu or pick up from the hot bar, Lovey’s is great for a quick lunch or dinner.

Drift

With 5 Wilmington locations, Drift is the perfect stop for brunch or lunch, with delicious lattes and bowls. My personal favorite is the Harvest Bowl (hold the cheese, please).

Spoonfed

While Spoonfed doesn’t have a ton of choices, what they do offer is delicious. I love their beautiful chia seed bowl.

Ceviche’s

Ceviche’s is a fresh take on Panamanian Cuisine that offers quite a few delicious veggie options, including their famous coconut ceviche made with young coconut meat, avocado, red bell peppers, and citrus.

Clean Juice

As a franchise, Clean Juice is a no-brainer for delicious and ORGANIC fare, something I’m always conscious about.

Savorez

Savorez serves up flavor with a cozy atmosphere plus a few out of this world vegan dishes.

Yosake

Yosake is the perfect spot for a night out in downtown Wilmington. They also have a great happy hour food selection.

Tidal Creek Co-op

Tidal Creek’s hot bar serves up a new menu everyday. They also have a great selection of grab and go sandwiches, dips, and treats.

Beer Barrio

Head downtown to Beer Bario, sit outside, people watch while enjoying a few vegan tacos. They even have a homemade vegan cheese sauce!

Tandoori Bites

When it comes to vegan food, one can never go wrong with Indian cuisine. Tandoori has the options and the fun atmosphere!

Pho Cafe

My husband swears by Pho Cafe veggie ramen – he says it’s the best he’s ever had.

Little Asia Bistro

Although a little tucked away and unassuming, Little Asia Bistro is super delicious with a plethora of different vegan options.

Nikki’s Fresh Gourmet

Nikki’s has been voted best sushi for 10 years! Enough said.

Our Crepes and More

Build Your Own savory or sweet crepe at Our Crepes and More, with a long list of yummy plant-based options.

Flaming Amy’s Burrito Barn

Beans and rice, what more can one ask for? Flaming Amy’s offers burritos, bowls, salads and more.

 print